How to Become a Border Patrol Agent

Submitted by Samuel Homes on Tuesday, Jan 28th, 2014

When it comes to learning how to become a border patrol agent it is important to understand that there are more guidelines and requirements than your average criminal justice career. In this fascinating article, you can learn about them.

What are the general requirements involved in becoming a border patrol agent?

All applicants must be United States Citizens in order to be eligible to for selection as a border patrol agent. They also need a valid driver’s license. Prospective agents must be able to not only take but pass the CBP Patrol entrance examination, which is part of a three-part test that will cover logical reasoning skills. A strong proficiency in the Spanish language will be important as well, and if you aren't, you'll need to take a test to determine your potential ability to learn Spanish. Additional requirements include an assessment of job-related achievements as well as a variety of experience associated with the job. In addition, your resume for the border patrol agent application must specifically describe the job duties for which you want to be considered in this particular determination. All transcripts, grade-point calculations of any kind, and any other required documentation must be provided. There also medical (vision) tests one must go through to become a border patrol agent.

How do I qualify at the GL-5 Level for a Border Patrol Agent?

In order to qualify at the GL-5 level of border patrol agent eligibility, you must have quite an extensive background of experience. Whether paid, voluntary, or part-time, your experience must demonstrate your ability to handle the job and take charge, show initiative, and of course maintain composure in potentially stressful situations. You must also be able to maintain interpersonal relationships with those you work with and the general public. You should also possess a willingness to learn the law enforcement regulations, techniques, and methods both in relation to on the job as well as through that of a formal instruction. The work experience does not have to be law enforcement related but must be enough to show that you will be able to handle the job. If you don't have the background experience, you may be considered with a relevant four-year college degree, which is not required. A mix of both relevant education and work experience may be accepted in some cases.

How do I qualify at a GL-7, GL-9 level?

Generally in order to qualify at the GL-7 or GL-9 level, you may require some specific degrees to match the requirements involved for the particular level of your interest. A GL-7 level qualification would involve more fire-arm use and arrests, so applicable experience for these would be required. The GL-9 level qualification is more relevant to interrogations and arrests specifically, and requires some law enforcement experience; at least one year of relevant experience is preferred.

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